LINCOLN OFFERS A HYBRID AT NO EXTRA COST

Lincoln offers its 2011 MKZ Hybrid at the same base price as its conventional gas sibling The Ford Motor Company product juggernaut continues: You know about the great leap forward in Ford’s 2011 Mustangs. You just read about the new 2011 Explorer, which is expected to get 30 percent better gas mileage than the current model. There’s more: The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Lincoln’s new MKZ Hybrid will be a standout in the marketplace for one unique distinction when it goes on sale this fall: It will be priced the same as its conventional gas sibling. “Lincoln is about delivering luxury standard,” said John Felice, general manager, Ford and Lincoln Marketing. “Whether it’s our new MKX with standard MyLincoln Touch™ technology or the no-cost choice of a gas or hybrid powertrain with the Lincoln MKZ, we want to give customers premium amenities with unexpected value.” The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses the company’s second-generation hybrid technology—the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine—named one of Ward’s 2010 “10 Best Engines.” The system is said to combine the best attributes of the gasoline engine and electric battery-driven motors to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy. The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid delivers a 41 mpg fuel economy rating in the city, topping its only near competitor—the 2010 Lexus HS 250h—by six mpg. It also trumps the Lexus with more passenger space, more standard luxury and segment-exclusive safety features. The following features come standard on the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Ford is quick to point out that they are either not offered at all on the Lexus HS 250h (its closest competitor), or are available at an extra cost: * SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide – Ford’s successful interactive technology provides real-time information to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, and coaches drivers on how to optimize hybrid performance. SmartGauge gives drivers enhanced positive feedback on long-term fuel efficiency and driving performance through the “growth” of virtual small flowers on the system’s right-most screen. Lincoln’s white flowers, inspired by apple blossoms, remain permanently unless long-term fuel economy is reset. * Genuine wood trim – In addition to their exquisite appearance, the Swirl Walnut and Olive Ash wood trims offered in the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid are said to be eco-friendly as well. The veneers come from well-managed forests, as defined by strict environmental, social and economic standards, and from other rigorously controlled sources. * Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats. The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery, soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle. * Lincoln SYNC® – The Lincoln-exclusive voice-activated communications and entertainment system provides an omnipresent link to contacts and information. In addition to Bluetooth® phone, audible text and MP3 player capabilities, Lincoln customers also can access Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™. * 10-way power passenger seat – The seat is designed to accommodate a diverse group of passengers. Memory functions enable passengers to fine-tune and recall positions. * Power driver memory seat settings – The driver seat memory feature helps ensure personal seating preferences anytime, with the touch of a button. * Heated and cooled front seats – This system delivers exceptional heating and cooling comfort. * Reverse sensing system – This system senses what drivers might not see behind them and relays an audible alert if objects are near, which increases in frequency the closer a driver gets. * Easy Fuel® (capless fuel filler) – This feature uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to eliminate the need for a fuel tank screw cap. That means no more fumbling to remove and tighten the cap and less fuel odor on a driver’s hands. * MyKey™ – This Lincoln-exclusive feature allows parents to program a key to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. It also encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings, and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 mph. * Integrated spotter mirrors – The traditional sideview mirrors are designed with a secondary convex spotter mirror in the top outer corner, which provides a view of the driver’s blind spot. When traffic enters the driver’s blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, alerting the driver of obstacles.

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid “Customers are very enthusiastic about the MKZ Hybrid and we think they will be even more excited to learn they sacrifice nothing to be able to go green in style,” said Felice. “We’re launching a world-class hybrid that beats all competitors, and at an introductory price that is sure to draw the interest of new customers to Lincoln.” When the 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid goes on sale this fall, it will have an MSRP starting at $35,180, including destination and delivery. The pricing is identical to the 2011 Lincoln MKZ gas model and below the hybrid-electric 2010 Lexus HS 250h.